Statement by Mr. Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs - Death of Tunisian President Béji Caïd Essebsi (26 July 2019)

I was saddened to learn of the death of President Béji Caïd Essebsi. I offer my condolences to his family, his loved ones, and to the Tunisian people.

With President Béji Caïd Essebsi, Tunisia loses a statesman who deeply marked the history of his country. France loses a friend who throughout his life worked tirelessly to foster friendship and rapprochement between our two countries and our two peoples, first as Tunisia’s Ambassador to France, from 1970 to 1972, then as the country’s chief diplomat, as Prime Minister, and finally as President.

Throughout his life, he worked to heal memories.

Béji Caïd Essebsi devoted his final years to committing his country to build a democratic political system that is respectful of human rights, equality between men and women, and the freedom of religion and conscience. His contribution to Tunisia’s stability and national unity is incalculable.